Updated
Uganda gorilla permits are limited to eight visitors per habituated family per day, and with a little over 20 families open to tourists in Bwindi and Mgahinga, only around 160–200 standard permits are available on any given day. For June to September and December to February, check and book three to six months ahead, or earlier for groups or a specific sector. In April, May and November, when permits cost US$600 instead of US$800, a few weeks’ notice is often enough. Availability can be checked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or any licensed operator.
How to check availability
UWA manages all permits and can confirm availability for a date and sector through its booking system or reservations office in Kampala. Licensed tour operators check the same system daily and can quickly tell you which sectors still have space on your dates, hold permits while you confirm, and suggest alternatives. Have your possible dates, the number of people and your preferred sector ready, plus passport details for booking. See our guide to booking through an operator or direct with UWA.
When permits sell out
The busiest periods are the drier months of June to September and December to February, especially July, August and the Christmas holidays, when international visitors and East African residents travel at the same time. Popular sectors such as Buhoma, and sectors with few families such as Nkuringo and Mgahinga, fill first. Groups needing several permits for the same family on the same day should book earliest. The rainy months are much easier, and many travellers choose them for the cheaper permits.
If your dates are full
Be flexible on sector first: Rushaga, in southern Bwindi, has the most families and often has space when others are full. Then try nearby dates, a day or two either side. Splitting a group between two families in the same sector can work. Cancellations do free up places, so an operator may find a permit closer to the time, but do not book non-refundable flights until the permit is secure. See our guides to the Rushaga sector and last-minute options.
Booking once you find space
Pay for the permit as soon as you have confirmed availability, as holds are short. The permit is issued in your name for one date and one sector, with the price set by UWA. Then book a lodge in the same sector and your transport, and only then international flights. Ask for a copy of the permit. Refunds on cancellation are limited and depend on how far ahead you cancel; see our guide to cancellation and refunds and the step-by-step booking guide.
Habituation experience availability
The Gorilla Habituation Experience in Rushaga has far fewer places, up to four visitors per family per day, and costs US$1,500 in 2026, rising to US$1,800 in 2027. It often sells out months ahead, so book it before anything else if it matters to you. See our guide to the habituation experience.
Frequently asked questions
Three to six months for June–September and December–February; a few weeks may be enough in April, May and November.
Roughly 160–200, eight per habituated family across Bwindi and Mgahinga.
Usually Rushaga, which has the most habituated families.
Yes, with UWA, or ask a licensed operator, who can check and hold permits quickly.
